Getting Started with Organic Certification
Resources
Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) is a certifier in the state. Visit KDA's website for details on the Organic Program and organic certification application materials.
The National Organic Program (NOP) regulations:
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A short overview of the crop standards (this is a good place to start if you are new to the regulations).
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An overview of the organic livestock standards.
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The complete NOP regulations.
Material Review Lists
Knowing what products and materials are allowed or prohibited in organic production is important. KDA recognizes these material review lists:
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Pennsylvania Certified Organic (if working with KDA, list available upon request)
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California Department of Food and Agriculture Registered Organic Input Materials
OAK's Transition Trainers are available for one-on-one consultations, providing a personal level of service and technical assistance on-site, at the farmer’s convenience. Transition Trainers can help with farm transition plans, navigating organic certification regulations, fundamental principles of organic agriculture, practical details about organic crop, livestock, grain, and dairy production, marketing opportunities, recordkeeping and other specific requirements. This service is free to OAK members.
Download an application to work with a Trainer and send it to us to get started.
Contact us for more information: info@oak-ky.org or 502-219-7378.
Other Resources for Business Planning and Grants:
Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) assists farmers and agricultural enterprises in business planning, grant applications and they have an informative newsletter.
Your local NRCS office could be a great resource for conservation work and potential funding through grant programs.
Join OAK's Transition Trainers for this informative webinar on the first steps towards organic certification. Hear common mistakes to avoid and ask all your questions. Transition Trainers will share tips and special considerations all while demystify the process.
Watch the presentation today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WetY3KVjm2U
Do you want to work with a Transition Trainer while you get started on your organic certification application? Email us to get started: info@oak-ky.org